Fred Thomas '26 Recruiting Profile

Football has been in my blood since I was a kid, dreaming of Friday night lights under the roar of the crowd. As a freshman, I walked onto the field wide-eyed, determined to make an impact. Even though I started on the scout team, I poured my heart into every practice, pushing the varsity players to be their best. This dedication, some might say stubbornness, earned me the nickname "Mule" from my teammates. They couldn't deny my work ethic – I wouldn't let them have a break, and that relentless drive ultimately landed me the title of "Scout Player of the Year."

This year, that dedication paid off in a big way. Coach saw the fire in me and gave me a shot at starting defensive end. It was a chance I wasn't going to waste. I terrorized opposing quarterbacks all season, finishing with a staggering 15.5 sacks. My performance didn't just solidify my role on the Casey-Westfield Warriors' defense, it got me recognized as the #2 DE in Illinois and a top 142 DE nationally! Being named Second Team All-Defense in the tough Little Illini Conference (LIC) was another incredible honor.

My story is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. From mimicking plays on the playground to becoming a force on the field, my journey is far from over. I'm determined to keep pushing myself to reach my full potential and become a College Football Player in the Fall of 2026. Please remember the name Fred "Mule" Thomas when looking for someone to protect your gridiron.